Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced new appointments or re-appointments of three members to the citizen-based Carrizo Plain National Monument Advisory Committee (MAC). The MAC advises BLM on public land issues and is composed of members with diverse interests and backgrounds.

“The BLM’s Resource Advisory Councils and Committees exemplify the collaborative approach taken by the BLM in handling public land issues,” said Secretary Salazar. “I want to welcome our newly appointed MAC members and salute them for their commitment to public service. Their counsel will serve the BLM well as the agency works to ensure the health and productivity of America’s great outdoors.”

The advisory councils and committees, composed of citizens chosen for their expertise in natural resource issues, help the BLM carry out its stewardship of 245 million acres – the largest land portfolio of any Federal agency. The BLM has established advisory groups across the West, where most BLM-managed land is located. Each consists of 10 to 15 members with an interest in public land management, such as conservationists, outdoor recreationists, ranchers, Tribal officials, state and local government officials, academics, and others.

BLM Director Bob Abbey said, “MAC members represent a variety of professional backgrounds and perspectives, and together bring a balanced outlook that the BLM needs in managing the public lands for multiple uses.”

“The MACs' principle of collaborative decision making while striving for consensus brings a balanced outlook that the bureau needs as it carries out its multiple-use mission,” said Tim Smith, BLM Bakersfield Field Office manager.

Council members re-appointed are: Ellen Cypher, Ph.D, Bakersfield, a plant ecologist and research ecologist with the Endangered Species Recovery Program representing the public-at-large; and Jim Patterson, Atascadero, a member of the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors.

Alice Bond, San Francisco, was appointed to the seat vacated by Bob Pavlik representing the public-at-large.